Against the backdrop of the magnificent Witpoortjie waterfall, this Garden (previously called the Witwatersrand National Botanical Garden) covers almost 300 hectares and consists of both landscaped and natural veld areas. The history of the Garden shows that it was founded in 1982, but has been a popular venue for outings since the 1800's.

Verreaux's EagleThe natural vegetation of the area is known as the "Rocky Highveld Grassland" and consists of a mosaic of grassland and savannah, with dense bush in kloofs and along streams. A list of naturally occurring trees is available.The variety of habitats accommodates over 600 naturally occurring plant species. View the seasonal highlights.

A breeding pair of majestic Verreaux's Eagles nest on the cliffs alongside the waterfall. The Garden is home to an abundance of wildlife. Together with the other 220 bird species, there are also a number of reptile and small mammals, including small antelope and jackal, which occur naturally in the Nature Reserve.

Several short walks run through the Garden and the surrounding natural areas. The JCI Geological Trail gives visitors the opportunity to not only walk along the Roodekrans Ridge and in the Nature Reserve portion of the Garden, but also to learn something about the fascinating geology of the area. Guided tours can be arranged for groups.

An outcomes-based schools' environmental education programme running in the Garden caters for school groups.

The Botanical Society, a non-profit support organisation, organises a wide range of lectures and outings. See the "What's On" page for details of Garden events.

Various capital development projects are in progress. The curio shop and the nursery are currently closed. We apologise for any inconvenience that this may cause. The Eagle's Fare restaurant has a tuckshop where cooldrinks and snacks may be purchased. The upgraded Random Harvest Nursery and new Isitiya Gift and Book Shop opened in October 2004. All of these facilities are open daily.

The Garden is open daily from 08:00 to 18:00, no entry after 17:00.
Entrance fees are charged.
Fees available on request and subject to change.
A surcharge is levied on special events days.

When we have special events like our Sappi Sunday Picnic Concerts, we charge extra.

If you are not sure of how to find us, print out our Directions and Map of how to get to the Garden.

You may bring along a ready-made picnic, there are many shaded lawn areas. Please note that braais and gas fires are not permitted. We have adopted a 'Carry-in Carry-out' Litter Policy and request that you take anything you bring or buy back home for disposal. Find out "How to Enjoy a Botanical Garden" which will enable you to plan and make the most of your visit."

Take a virtual tour to see some of the Garden's special features:

* Witpoortjie Waterfall - the surrounding cliffs reveal the fascinating geology of the area.
* Black Eagles - the only pair of nesting Black Eagles in urban Johannesburg make their home on the rock face alongside the waterfall.
* Succulent Rockery - a variety of some of the unusual succulent plants of South Africa.
* SASOL Dam & Wetland - take a walk along the boardwalk through the wetland and visit the bird hide.
* Cycad Garden - a collection of these ancient plants from all over South Africa.
* Water Garden - a stream with a series of ponds and water-loving plants flows past the restaurant.
* Walks & Trails - take visitors through both the natural and landscaped areas.

If you would like to receive free email notification of our forthcoming events, please email us at

General guided tours of the Botanical Garden can be arranged for groups at an extra cost per guide (with a maximum of 20 people per guide).
Normal entrance fee is payable. Telephone (011) 958-1750 to make a booking or for further information.
BOTANICAL SOCIETY EVENTS
OUTINGS, COURSES & LECTURES

Booking for the events listed below is usually essential. All bookings and enquiries for Botanical Society events should be directed to Karen at or (011) 958-0529 (am only)

Children of 12 years and under: Half the adult price
For some outings there may be an additional charge for entrance
fees to the venue.
Event

ART IN THE GARDEN

Come along and browse a wide range of artwork available for sale in a
stunning outdoor setting. A percentage of sales go to the Botanical
Society's Garden Development Fund. Art in the Garden takes place on the last Sunday of each month and on selected concert dates.